Hard Truth: In a Major War, the U.S. Would Rely on European Shipping to Deploy Its Forces We talk a lot about defense spending. But here’s a more strategic que

Hard Truth: In a Major War, the U.S. Would Rely on European Shipping to Deploy Its Forces We talk a lot about defense spending. But here’s a more strategic question: If the U.S. had to move 100,000+ troops and their gear across oceans tomorrow — could it? Probably Not without European shipping companies. Let’s look at the numbers: As of 2024, the entire U.S.-flagged commercial fleet has only ~180 vessels in international trade. Fewer than 60 are militarily useful (roll-on/roll-off, heavy cargo). The U.S. Merchant Marine is shrinking — and aging. Many ships are 40+ years old. The National Defense Reserve Fleet is partly obsolete, with long activation timelines. (Source: U.S. Maritime Administration, GAO) Meanwhile: MSC (Switzerland), Maersk (Denmark), CMA CGM (France), and Hapag-Lloyd (Germany) control over 54% of global container shipping capacity. These firms already have standing contracts with the U.S. Military Sealift Command for crisis logistics. (Source: Alphaliner, DoD logistics contracts) The U.S. cannot fight a large war overseas without European-owned shipping. That’s not even an insult — it’s a structural reality. And logistics is just the start: The F-35 is built with components from BAE Systems (UK), Leonardo (Italy), and Kongsberg (Norway). Saab, Rheinmetall, and MBDA supply systems used in U.S. and NATO missions. Europe also supports ISR, satellite relays, and base infrastructure for U.S. deployments.